Stoney Clove Notch: Complete Catskills Hiking Guide

Stoney Clove Notch is a dramatic 2,000-foot-deep gorge in New York's Catskill Mountains, featuring stunning waterfalls, hiking trails, and geological formations that showcase 385 million years of Earth's history.

Planning a trip to Stoney Clove Notch? You'll discover everything you need to know for an unforgettable Catskills adventure. This comprehensive guide covers trail conditions, seasonal highlights, historical context, and practical visitor information based on verified data from New York State conservation authorities.

Why Stoney Clove Notch Belongs on Your Catskills Itinerary

Nestled within the 700,000-acre Catskill Park, Stoney Clove Notch offers one of New York's most dramatic geological formations. The 2.5-mile gorge carved by Esopus Creek reveals Devonian-era sedimentary rock layers while providing access to multiple waterfalls and hiking trails suitable for various experience levels. Recent visitor surveys show 87% of hikers consider the West Kill Wilderness area surrounding Stoney Clove among their top three Catskills experiences.

Your Complete Planning Timeline

Smart preparation ensures you maximize your Stoney Clove experience. Follow this timeline for stress-free planning:

Timeframe	Action Items	Key Resources
4-6 weeks prior	Check trail conditions, reserve parking if needed	NYS DEC website, Catskill Center alerts
1-2 weeks prior	Verify weather patterns, pack appropriate gear	NWS forecast, trail camera updates
48 hours prior	Confirm parking availability, check recent visitor reports	DEC Facebook page, AllTrails updates
Day of visit	Arrive before 9am, carry water filtration system	Park signage, trailhead information boards

Understanding Stoney Clove's Geological Timeline

Stoney Clove Notch wasn't formed overnight. This dramatic gorge tells a story spanning hundreds of millions of years:

• 385 million years ago - Devonian period sediments deposited, forming the bedrock visible today
• 20,000 years ago - Glacial activity shaped the current landscape during the last ice age
• 1825-1840 - First documented exploration by European settlers
• 1904 - Officially designated as part of New York's Forest Preserve
• 1985 - West Kill Wilderness Area established, protecting 19,300 acres including Stoney Clove
• 2020 - Major trail restoration completed after Hurricane Irene damage

Trail Options for Every Experience Level

Whether you're a casual walker or experienced hiker, Stoney Clove offers appropriate routes. Understanding trail characteristics prevents disappointment and ensures safety:

Trail Name	Difficulty	Distance	Key Features	Best For
Stoney Clove Trail	Easy	2.1 miles RT	Paved path, waterfall views	Families, beginners
West Kill Mountain Trail	Moderate	5.6 miles RT	Multiple waterfalls, ridge views	Intermediate hikers
Plateau Mountain Trail	Challenging	8.2 miles RT	360-degree views, exposed sections	Experienced hikers

According to New York State Department of Environmental Conservation data, the Stoney Clove Trail sees approximately 45,000 visitors annually, with peak usage between May and October. The West Kill Mountain route remains underutilized despite offering superior waterfall access, making it ideal for those seeking solitude. Always check the DEC website for current trail conditions before departure.

Seasonal Considerations for Your Visit

Stoney Clove transforms dramatically throughout the year. Each season offers unique advantages and challenges:

• Spring (April-May) - Waterfalls at peak flow but trails can be muddy; ideal for waterfall photography
• Summer (June-August) - Most stable conditions but crowded; water temperatures ideal for wading
• Fall (September-October) - Spectacular foliage but increased traffic; best light conditions for photography
• Winter (November-March) - Frozen waterfalls create ice formations; requires specialized gear and experience

Recent climate data from the Catskill Atmospheric Science Center shows average summer temperatures at Stoney Clove are 5-7°F cooler than nearby Kingston, making it a natural refuge during heat waves. Winter visitors should note that trail conditions become significantly more challenging below 2,500 feet elevation, where most of the notch resides.

Safety Essentials You Must Know

While Stoney Clove offers incredible beauty, certain areas present real hazards. The DEC reports an average of 12 search and rescue operations annually in the West Kill Wilderness area:

• Stay on marked trails - cliff edges can be unstable and poorly marked in some sections
• Carry physical maps - cell service is unreliable throughout the notch
• Water safety - Esopus Creek can become dangerously swift after rainfall
• Wildlife awareness - black bears are common; store food properly
• Weather preparedness - microclimates can create sudden temperature drops

Always file a trip plan with someone reliable before heading out. The Catskill Regional Search and Rescue team emphasizes that most incidents occur when visitors attempt to take shortcuts or explore off-trail areas near waterfalls.

Connecting Your Visit to Regional Conservation Efforts

Your visit supports important conservation work. The Catskill Center reports that recreation tourism generates $187 million annually for local communities while funding preservation efforts. Consider these responsible practices:

• Use the Catskill Center's trail app for real-time conditions
• Participate in volunteer trail maintenance days
• Support local businesses that contribute to conservation
• Follow Leave No Trace principles strictly

Recent geological studies published by the New York State Museum confirm that increased foot traffic has accelerated erosion in certain sensitive areas. By staying on designated paths and respecting closures, visitors help preserve this unique geological formation for future generations.

Extending Your Adventure: Nearby Attractions

Stoney Clove serves as an excellent base for exploring the wider Catskill region:

• Devil's Tombstone - 15 minutes away; unique glacial rock formation
• Hunter Mountain Fire Tower - 25 minutes away; panoramic views
• Kaaterskill Falls - 30 minutes away; New York's tallest waterfall
• Catskill Interpretive Center - 20 minutes away; educational exhibits

Many visitors combine Stoney Clove with a visit to the nearby town of Hunter, which offers dining options and historical sites dating back to the 19th century. The Catskill Mountain Railroad also provides seasonal excursions that complement hiking adventures.

Final Preparation Checklist

Before you head out, verify you have these essentials:

• Waterproof trail map (digital backups aren't enough)
• Water filtration system (streams look clean but require treatment)
• Layered clothing system (temperatures vary significantly)
• Emergency whistle and signaling mirror
• High-energy snacks (minimum 500 extra calories)
• First-aid kit with blister treatment
• Trail permit if visiting during peak season

How difficult is the Stoney Clove Notch hike for beginners?

The main Stoney Clove Trail is rated easy with a well-maintained 2.1-mile round trip path. Beginners should note the final 0.3 miles involve some rocky terrain near the waterfall, but no technical climbing is required. Most visitors complete the trail in 1.5-2 hours at a comfortable pace.

Are dogs allowed on Stoney Clove trails?

Yes, leashed dogs are permitted on all Stoney Clove trails. The DEC recommends keeping dogs on leash at all times due to wildlife encounters and trail conditions. Note that water sources should not be considered safe for pets without filtration, and summer temperatures can make rocky surfaces too hot for paws.

What's the best time of day to visit Stoney Clove Notch?

Early morning (before 9am) provides the best lighting for photography, fewer crowds, and cooler temperatures. Late afternoon offers beautiful side lighting on the rock formations but coincides with peak visitor hours. Weekdays generally have 60% fewer visitors than weekends according to DEC trail counter data.

Is there cell service throughout Stoney Clove Notch?

Cell service is extremely limited throughout the notch. Verizon has sporadic coverage at higher elevations, while other carriers have almost no signal. The DEC strongly recommends carrying physical maps and a GPS device without relying on cell service. Emergency calls may be possible from certain ridge locations but shouldn't be counted on.

Can I swim in the waterfalls at Stoney Clove?

Swimming is permitted in designated areas but requires caution. Water temperatures remain cold year-round, and currents can be stronger than they appear. The DEC reports multiple incidents annually from visitors underestimating water conditions. Always check depth before entering and avoid jumping into pools as submerged rocks create serious hazards.